King Charles: King Charles’ state visit to France postponed after violent protests

The Elysee said a joint decision was taken by the British and French governments after trade unions called for a further day of nationwide strikes and demonstrations during the king’s visit.

The postponement will be a major embarrassment to Macron, who had hoped the monarch’s visit would mark a symbolic step in the two countries’ efforts to turn a page after years of poor relations post-Brexit.

King Charles had been due to travel first to France for three days before moving on to Germany, an itinerary that had been seen as a coup for the French leader who has sought to position himself as Europe’s de facto leader.

“The visit will be reprogrammed as soon as possible,” the Elysee said in a statement.

By Dominique Vidalon

(Reporting by Dominique Vidalon; Writing by Richard Lough; Editing by Ingrid Melander and Christina Fincher)